The Mission of the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce is to enhance your business, other businesses throughout the region and promote the economic well-being of the county.
We focus on providing valuable benefits, strengthening the quality of life within the community, serving as your liaison between business and government, and preparing our future workforce.

Friday, April 29, 2016

With Philly Tech Week just
beginning its sixth annual week-long celebration of technology and innovation,
it reminds us of the great strides made in these fields. With a consistently
changing society, especially in technology and business, you need to continue
to adapt and remain current with technology in order for your business to
succeed. Applications are an easy and resourceful way to support you and your
business. So check out these five recommended “apps” to help you in the
business world. Also they won’t require you to pay a cent, and who doesn’t like
FREE!

It’s surprising with the
advances we made in technology and all the resources we have right at our
fingertips, people still exchange business cards. But we still do, and it can
be such a hassle to try and keep track of all the cards we exchange. Also it’s
a very monotonous and time-consuming task to enter all the information from the
cards to your contact list. This app helps speed the process and manages your
contact list with one snap of a picture. This business card reader converts
business card information by taking a picture of them and adding them to your
contact list. It is an easy and painless way to keep your contact list
up-to-date. Also this app will go the extra-mile from other “card reader” apps by
using the business card information and add the person you met as a LinkedIn
connection.

If you’re tired of the
countless e-mails back and forth to track who in your business has what
assignment and if they have already completed certain projects; then this app
is the lifeline you have been looking for. Founded in 2008 by Facebook
Co-Founder Dustin Moskovitz, Asana is a shared task list and project management
tool for your entire team. The app lets you see who on your team has what
assignment, and what projects you have been assigned while you were out of the
office. Besides just keeping up with tasks, you can attach files from Dropbox
and attach images to projects. Also the app syncs in real time on your phone
and on a web-based version as well. With this app you will never be left out of
the loop no matter where you are.

Anybody who is in the
business field knows the struggle of conference calls. Whether it be trying to
have everyone on the same line or having them all use the same platform, it can
be a hassle. With so many platforms available for video conference calls,
it can be a real challenge for everyone to use the same one. Maybe it’s because
some won’t download correctly or they just prefer other types. Now with this
app, you will no longer have to have everyone on the same platform for video
conference calls. This service lets companies conduct video conference calls
with everyone using different platforms like Google Hangouts, Microsoft Lync,
and many more. And it gets even better. You do not even have to be at a
computer to be a part of the call since the app can work right off your iPhone.

How many times have you
been traveling for work and need the internet but there are no wifi spots
available? FoxFi has made the solution for dead-zones. The app works by turning
your mobile device into a free wifi hotspot without a tether plan required. You
might think that this sounds too good to be true, might damage the phone, or
be at risk of revealing your information, but this highly secure app works
without breaking into your phone’s software. Also the app can support multiple
connections, and can work with any tablet as well.

Isn’t it just a pain when
you need to collect a payment, but the person does not have cash and you can’t
bring your credit card machine with you? Writing down the card information can be problematic. Square is an amazing tool.
After downloading the app, the company will send you a free magstripe reader.
It allows you to use your smartphone or tablet to accept all major credit
cards and deposit into your bank account in one or two business days. With only
a 2.75% per swipe fee, Square can really help advance your business and
increase profits. The best part is with so much sensitive information being
processed, Square makes protection and security their number one priority.

See how these apps can best help you
and your company, and with no cost you can at least give it a try without
losing anything. Be part of the technology movement and stay up-to-date with
all business apps. With today being the start for Philly Tech Week in
Delaware County, check out all of the upcoming events and see what sparks your
interest and join the movement.

"Never before in history has
innovation offered promise of so much to so many in so short a time." -
Bill Gates

About the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce:

Founded in 1887, the Delaware County
Chamber of Commerce represents businesses' interests and issues affecting the
community. We help Chamber members succeed through proactive outreach and
partnering with all levels of government and community organizations through
education, networking and collaboration to achieve a healthy economy to drive
business forward. For more information on membership and how you can get
involved, visit www.delcochamber.org

Friday, April 22, 2016

Since
opening their doors in August 2015, 2SP Brewing Company has quickly become one
of the most popular brewing companies in Delaware County and the Philadelphia
area. Already having over 200 accounts where their beer is sold,
this is truly a company on the rise. Owner, Michael Stiglitz, always had a
passion for beer and while formerly working for Iron Hill Brewing Company, his
passion only grew stronger. Working for Iron Hill, Stiglitz was
introduced to craft beers and some very important connections which would lead
to the 2SP Brewery today. Stiglitz convinced both Bob Barrar (Head Brewer) and
Andrew “Ruby” Rubenstein (Head Cellarman) to join him in creating their own
brewing company. But it was Barrar’s one condition to join with Stiglitz
that lead to such quick success and recognition. Barrar ,who was born and
raised in Glenolden, would only join if he was able to brew one particular beer
and pay homage to the county he loved. That brew is known today as “Delco Lager.”
This decision would quickly put the brewery on the map, and make them stand out
among the competition.

With over 30
different styles of beer and growing, you might be unsure exactly where to
start. No matter which one you choose, you will see why 2SP is the
place to be. If you would like a road map, Mike Stiglitz will
tell you his top five beers:

1.Antonym

This springtime and
summer grisette is the perfect way to cool off with the heat quickly
approaching. With hints of melon this craft offers a crisp and refreshing taste.
It is easy to drink and perfect to try if you are new to sampling craft
beers. Though Stiglitz believes this to be there number one beer they have
brewed, its beginnings make it a bit ironic and interesting. He believed that
this French, hoppy, farmhouse ale was not marketable and refused to brew it.
It was Ruby who decided to brew it since there was an empty fermenter tank
and Stiglitz was gone for the weekend. When Stiglitz returned he was irritated
with Ruby’s decision, but was amazed with its taste and it is now his favorite
beer at 2SP.

This is 2SP’s very own
version of the Belgian favorite. The clean yet complex saison is ripe with
fruit without being overbearing. At first sip, there are notes of light spice
and herbs, but it’s the yeast that gives it a characteristic of fruitiness and
aroma. Being neither super dry or too sweet, it is the perfect blend of
finesse and strength. Also if you’re celebrating or want to feel a
little more sophisticated, than this is the perfect alternative to “boring,
old” champagne.

This highly developed,
precious American style stout takes after its father, Bob’s Russian Imperial
Stout. Served with helpings of roasty and chocolate malts, and American hops,
this bold and dry stout is semisweet with a hint of coffee notes. Also with it
only being 6%, this is a stout Stiglitz says you can drink without it being overbearing or making you feel full. This stout does not “fall
far from the tree” and can live up to dad’s expectations.

This is an ideally
balanced Double IPA, without inhibition or prohibition for flavor. The bold, pushing hops and therapeutic malts offers a tropical fruit and dry flavor.
Though this Double IPA strives for balance, it has a perplexing desire for
American hops. Out of the 30+ beers brewed, this is one of those crafts that
stood out, and from day one Stiglitz fell in love. Let this punishing brew punch
you in the mouth, and show you why its “top dog.”

5.Cold Cock

This English IPA offers a
balance of roasts and citrus with a stiff earthy and floral flavor. Key notes
of orange surround this notably less bitter IPA style. Originally, Stiglitz did
not like the English IPA style, but it was Barrar’s creation that opened his
eyes to this new style. With Cold Cock being Barrar’s favorite beer at 2SP,
this is a must try with the Head Brewer giving his stamp of approval.

Come enjoy the
experience of a true “Delco” Brewery. This is the perfect place to be with
knowledgeable staff in a friendly environment. Also for you “foodies”,
come try some amazing bites with different food trucks available Thursday
through Saturday. And while you’re at it, why not check out an amazing
classic car show with “Delco Cruisers” happening the 2nd Friday of
every month from April to October.

Try these five recommended and others
to see why it is so difficult for Mike Stiglitz to only pick five. Also take
home a growler of your favorite. If a growler isn’t enough, then I have some
great news for you. Starting the second week of May, 2SP will be canning their
beer offering cases to the public. They will be starting with these four beers: Delco Lager, ASAP, Bellcracker, and Cold Cock. Join the craze
and try real Delco beer, brewed with 100% “wudder”.

PLEASE DRINK RESPONSIBLY ﻿

About the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce:

Founded in 1887, the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce represents businesses' interests and issues affecting the community. We help Chamber members succeed through proactive outreach and partnering with all levels of government and community organizations through education, networking and collaboration to achieve a healthy economy to drive business forward. For more information on membership and how you can get involved, visit www.delcochamber.org

Tuesday, April 19, 2016

It has been almost 10 months since Governor Wolf vetoed the General
Assembly’s proposed budget. Nearly 10 months without a budget, the longest in
Pennsylvania’s history, meaning that essential services have gone without
needed funding and are schools will possibly close soon as well. Governor Wolf
believes the only way out of our current budget deficit is more spending and
more taxes, but putting it politely the Governor is out of touch.

The Republican Majority Leaders in the legislature have worked to
create a balanced budget with fewer taxes so that essential services get the
funds they so desperately need, but we do not break the backs of hardworking
taxpayers. The Governor has asked the General Assembly to pass bills that
increase the state income tax, increase the state sales tax, and further expand
the sales tax to cover additional items and services.

Governor Wolf wants to raise the personal income tax from 3.07 percent
to 3.7 percent, burdening the middle class with a 16 percent tax increase. Rep.
Adolph (R-Delaware), Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee, summed up
the Governor’s budget proposal with a simple sentence. “Wow, an incredible
amount of taxes”. It is common sense that these broad based tax increases will
hurt Pennsylvanians and their businesses across the board.

Now Governor Wolf has proposed a new budget for the 16-17 fiscal years
while 15-16 budgets have not yet been completed. This new budget has the same
exact failings as the first, higher taxes and increased spending. If this path
continues Governor Wolf will not pass a budget until it meets his exact
criteria, which will place financial strain on Pennsylvanians. While this
battle continues in Harrisburg many on the sidelines are continually hurt because
of the lack of state services available.

About the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce:

Founded in 1887, the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce represents businesses' interests and issues affecting the community. We help Chamber members succeed through proactive outreach and partnering with all levels of government and community organizations through education, networking and collaboration to achieve a healthy economy to drive business forward. For more information on membership and how you can get involved, visit www.delcochamber.org

Friday, April 15, 2016

“I want to be as famous as midnight… and as loved as pizza.”- Macy Gray (American R&B, jazz and soul singer, songwriter, musician, record producer, and actress)

Pizza is considered to be one of the most popular and beloved foods throughout the world. To be honest, who doesn’t enjoy grabbing a slice? Since the simpler times where you only had two choices: plain or pepperoni, pizza has adapted and become a staple in our culture. Many have attempted to leave there mark on the pizza culture with creative toppings or just becoming known as the local place to be. Now Delaware County has a wide variety of places to choose from for pizza, and it seems that everyone offers it as a menu item. So where do you go? More than likely you find a place you like and stick with it. You don’t want to take the chance and end up with a bad pie. But like Mel Brooks said, “Pizza is like sex. Even when it is bad it is good.” So let the Chamber steer you in the right direction to some must try slices in Delco, you won’t be disappointed!

Now everyone can agree the best style is the brick oven pizza, and Bertucci’s is the place to be. Spending 30 years perfecting the art of brick oven cooking, the Bruschetta Pizza will not disappoint. From that first bite, a blend of spices and flavors overwhelm you reminding what happens when you combine two Italian classics… “It can only get better.” When you reach the crust, don’t think the experience is over, in fact it has just begun. Their signature crust baked with basil, pesto, and fresh mozzarella is a treat all in its own. Come visit and let their staff treat you like part of the family and see what brick oven cooking is all about.

There’s nothing better than having some cold pizza, from the night before, for breakfast. Actually in the United States 4% of pizza eaten by children is for breakfast. But don’t you wish you could have something more? Well, Frankie’s has the solution. This flat bread breakfast pizza is one of a kind from the fluffy scrambled eggs to the crispy sizzling bacon. This could be the best form of brunch ever. With Frankie’s only being a year old, they are already being recognized for their fabulous menu with the Delaware County Daily Times voting them “2015 Best of Delco” for best breakfast, catering, family dining, wings, vegetarian, and crab cakes.

With its roots tied so deeply back to Italy, Little Anthony’s is a must stop, especially in Media. The owner, Michael, moved to Media in 1999 from Monte di Procida, a small town outside Naples, and brought the true style of Italian cooking right here to Delco. Little Anthony’s prides itself on using top quality ingredients. The Margherita pizza has such a fresh taste you can see why they are so famous. They truly follow the theme of a family-style restaurant claiming they will never be a chain, reminding you quality is better than quantity.

When you have a slice of pizza, is your first thought to go for the hot sauce? If it is, then this is the slice that will blow you away. This pie can pack a punch without the heat being overbearing or taking away from flavor. It is the perfect blend for a “buffalo chicken” style pizza. With MOD opening its doors in Seattle in 2008, the company has gown with over 90 locations across the country. Also for you Villanova fans, MOD will be giving away FREE Pizza Saturday, April 16 to celebrate our national champs. Fall in love with this slice and discover your favorite, and be part of the “MOD”ness.

Now Tavola’s definitely takes on the theme of high-end pizza, and for you vegetarian pizza lovers this will be an instant favorite. The classic white brick style pizza could make even the most stubborn meat lover sing a new tune. With such a multitude of vegetable toppings, this pie could go head to head with any meat lover’s pizza. Come visit and see why OpenTable named Tavola their 2016 Diners’ Choice. Pizza has never been so classy.

Go break away from your typical pizza place and explore these five locations and sample these slices along with the rest of their menu. You know what they say, variety is the spice of life, but I’m pretty sure they meant mozzarella is. And remember in the words of the great Bill Murray, “Every pizza is a personal pizza if you try hard enough and believe in yourself.”

About the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce:

Founded in 1887, the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce represents businesses' interests and issues affecting the community. We help Chamber members succeed through proactive outreach and partnering with all levels of government and community organizations through education, networking and collaboration to achieve a healthy economy to drive business forward. For more information on membership and how you can get involved, visit www.delcochamber.org

Friday, April 8, 2016

Since
opening its doors in 1955, Pinocchio’s
has been a staple in the borough of Media. Their fantastic
selection on the menu makes it a must stop. What you might not know, this is also the place to be for the avid beer connoisseur or someone
just looking to try something new. Having so much success selling
mix-and-match six packs, Pinocchio’s manager, Tim Volikas, had the brilliant
idea to create the first beer garden and bottle shop in the Delaware County
area. With this decision, it sparked a new draw for Pinocchio’s and created a
wonderful new Delco destination. Since Pinocchio’s Beer Garden celebrated its
six year anniversary this past December, they have become a hot spot with their friendly atmosphere and highly knowledgeable staff.

With
1000 different beers to try it may be difficult to decide exactly where to
start, so let Pinocchio’s beer guru or “Brew”ru, Alex Morris, list five must
try beers at Pinocchio’s along with some tasty menu items to pair them with.

This uncivilized and aggressive West Coast
style IPA truly packs a punch and it is easily understood why this is one of
their top seller’s at the garden. From the first pour, an aroma of hops
overtakes you, while your first sip packs wicked hop flavors with just a note
of pine and citrus. If you are a fan of IPA’s than this is what you have been
looking for and let this big bitter IPA crush your pallet. With such a bold
flavor, it may be hard to pair anything to go along with this beer, but Morris
recommends Pinocchio’s Upside Down Pizza. With the complexity and boldness of
the sharp cheddar, fight big with big enjoying this pair.

This new take on a Belgian-style witbeir
is brewed with their special blend of spices and is incredibly refreshing and
full of flavor. Let this smooth brew allow you to taste the blend of spices and
cloves, with hints of fruit to refresh the pallet. This easy drinking “American
Classic” is the perfect fit for someone who is new to IPA’s, and would like to
sample what Morris considers to be the “Best American Belgium White”. Since this
beer is smooth and has an array of spices and flavors, it is suggested to pair
this with a simpler taste like Pinocchio’s classic plain pizza.

Artisanal meets mechanical in a state of
IPA they call Perpetual. Cycling through their HopBack vessel and dry-hopping
method, this bold American Double/ Imperial IPA emerges rife with sticky citrus
rind, pine balm and tropical fruit. With its consistent flavor, this is a beer
you can drink almost anywhere and be satisfied. Also Morris considers
Perpetual IPA to be the best local IPA. Since this
is another smooth beer with a variety of flavors, something simple is in order
to eat with this craft. So for you vegetarian pizza lovers out there, mushroom
is the way to go.

Becoming the newest of the IPA’s available
at Pinocchio’s, Sculpin’s unique flavor and the tart freshness of grapefruit perfectly complements their IPA’s citrusy hop character. Though grapefruit is a
winter fruit, this easy-drinking ale tastes like summer. This ale started
the fruit trend for IPA brewing, and with so much popularity Ballast Point
recently sold for $1 billion. It is a must try to see what
all the fuss is about. Being such a versatile beer, Morris recommends to sample
it with a dessert. So for all you sweet tooth’s out there, why not enjoy Pinocchio’s “Brownie
Delight” alongside this incredible ale.

For a cider to make the list alongside
such great beers, you know there must be something special about it. This cider
sets the standard with a bright, fruit forward flavor profile.With no added sugars or flavors, just
carefully selected apple varieties that are grown, pressed and fermented in
Pennsylvania, it is the true standard for ciders surpassing all the
competition. This super-clean cider is an easy transition for even the most
stubborn beer drinker. Since this is such a lite and effervescent drink, Morris
actually does not recommend any food to be paired with it, but rather be used
as a pallet cleanser in between sampling the wide-variety of ales available.

Come to Pinocchio’s and fall in love with these five
recommended brews, and let Alex Morris guide you through the array of different beers
available. He could even introduce you to your new favorite. You can also enjoy
half priced drafts at happy hour Monday through Thursday from 4-6pm. And if the
beers are too good to leave, Pinocchio’s offers growlers and canned growlers, “Crowlers”,
to take home with you. With such a fun enjoyable atmosphere and crowd, feel
like “Norm” as you walk in and let everybody know your name.

Please
Drink Responsibly

About
the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce:

Founded
in 1887, the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce represents businesses'
interests and issues affecting the community. We help Chamber members succeed
through proactive outreach and partnering with all levels of government and
community organizations through education, networking and collaboration to
achieve a healthy economy to drive business forward. For more information on
membership and how you can get involved, visit www.delcochamber.org

The Delaware Country Chamber was proud to recognize five
recipients for the 2016 Small Business Awards. Honorees were selected in key
categories including involvement in the local business and trade associations,
and demonstrated contributions to the region, such as donations to Delaware
County residents in need. Companies must have been locally owned, privately
held and been in business for a minimum of five successive years, and are
active members of the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce. The following
companies and individuals were recognized:

·Small
Family Business of the Year – Burns’ Family Neighborhood Markets

·SCORE
Business Award – Action Potential

The event capped with an engaging address from keynote speaker
Matt Ruth, Chief Commercial Officer, from Adapt
Pharma. Ruth discussed the success of Adapt Pharma’s product, the Narcan Nasal Spray. He spoke on
how Narcan was assisting Delaware County first responders saving hundreds of
more lives from opioid overdoses. Chamber President, Trish McFarland stated, “There
is an epidemic facing our country and we need to make sure we are taking the
necessary steps to educate our community. We are grateful to have Matt Ruth
from Adapt Pharma share their piece of the story.”

Overall, the night was a major success promoting small
businesses and allowing Chamber members to celebrate the successes of their
fellow colleagues. McFarland expressed, “Together with our presenting sponsor,
Comcast Business, we are thrilled to be able to recognize the business leaders
of Delaware County.The Delaware County
Chamber is committed to recognizing companies and persons who have made
significant contributions to our local economy.”

About the Delaware
County Chamber of Commerce:

Founded in 1887, the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce
represents businesses' interests and issues affecting the community. We help
Chamber members succeed through proactive outreach and partnering with all
levels of government and community organizations through education, networking
and collaboration to achieve a healthy economy to drive business forward. For
more information on membership and how you can get involved, visit www.delcochamber.org

About Me

Delaware County has the unique history of receiving William Penn via boat in 1682, for which our state Pennsylvania is named. Penn landed in what is known today as the city of Chester, Delaware County. The city formed a Board and Trade which operated to benefit the growth and development of the community.

In 1913 popular opinion was unfavorable regarding the performance of the Board and Trade, and an announcement of a new Chamber of Commerce was made to work with the less dynamic Board and Trade. The proposed Chamber of Commerce was backed by men of wealth and the highest standing in the city’s commercial field, and as reported, was created to reach out to industries looking for a location.

It is from those desires for bolstering the economic development of the County over 100 years ago that today we can proudly present our organization that has sustained over many decades, Delaware County Chamber of Commerce.